If you're interested in making people feel and look their best, a career as a Beauty Specialist may be a great fit.

Types of Degrees

When searching for schools in the Beauty Specialist field, it's important to find a school that prepares students for the state licensing exam, which Beauty Specialists must complete before working in the industry. In such programs, you can expect instruction in hair removal, skin theory, manicure, pedicure, nail extensions, salon management, and the biological foundations of the skin. Most programs can be completed in six months, after which you take the state licensing exam and begin your career.

Admission Requirements

Most beautician programs are available at technical schools, community colleges, online schools and private for-profit schools. Associate degrees are common in this field and require students to take some general coursework in addition to their Beauty Specialist classes. A high school diploma or equivalent is usually required.

Career Opportunities After Earning A Beauty Specialist Certification/Degree

The range of career opportunities available to someone with a degree or certification as a Beauty Specialist include:

• Make-up Artist
• Nail Care Specialist
• Skincare Specialist
• Colorist
• Stylist
• Information based on national data, not school-specific information. Conditions in your area may vary.

Post Graduate Salary Information

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median salary for a Skincare Specialist was $45,330 in 2025 ¹. Barbers, hairdressers, and cosmetologists earned a median salary of $35,880 in 2025 ².

Note that the average salary varies widely not only depending on career chosen, but on geographical location and the employer.

References

1. Bureau of Labor Statistics
2. Bureau of Labor Statistics

• Careers associated with these educational opportunities often require additional degrees and certifications not offered as part of the educational opportunities presented by this website.
• Information based on national data, not school-specific information. Conditions in your area may vary.